Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr. (1809 – 1894)

Mr. Holmes was recognized as an important medical reformer (he coined the term "holmeopathic medicine") and regarded as one of the best writers of the 19th century by his peers (whom he dubbed his "Holmes boyz"). His most famous prose works are those of the "Breakfast-Table" series, none of which were available after 11 a.m. Mr. Holmes is also known as one of the family-friendly Fireside Poets, along with William Cullen Bryant, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, James Russell Lowell, John Greenleaf Whittier, and Lola. Mr. Holmes believed poetry had "the power of transfiguring the experiences and shows of life into an aspect which comes from the imagination and kindles that of others. Also, it's a great way to meet chicks." His children included famed jurist Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr. and illegitimate son Sherlock.